Additionally, opioid replacement therapy reduces the risk of contracting Hepatitis C and HIV among other communicable diseases.

The drug may be used in people who are undergoing opioid pain therapy, are opioid dependent, or on opioid replacement therapy, though prolonged use may cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.

MMT (Methadone Maintenance Treatment), a form of opioid replacement therapy, reduces and/or eliminates the use of illicit opiates, the criminality associated with opiate use, and allows patients to improve their health and social productivity.

Opioid replacement therapy (ORT) or opioid substitution therapy is the medical procedure of replacing an illegal opioid drug such as heroin with a longer acting but less euphoric opioid, usually methadone or buprenorphine, that is taken under medical supervision.

Lactulose is useful for negating the constipating effects of opiates and opioids, as in individuals who are on narcotic pain medication, are opioid dependent, or are receiving Opioid Replacement Therapy such as with methadone or buprenorphine for a previous opioid dependency.